The Cantaderas

What is the celebration of Las Cantaderas about?

Las Cantaderas commemorates the historic Christian victory in the Battle of Clavijo and the liberation from the legendary "Tribute of the Hundred Maidens," which the Asturleonese monarchs paid annually to the Muslim caliphs. It is celebrated annually on the Sunday before the feast of San Froilán, on October 5th, and due to its cultural richness, it has been declared a Festival of Autonomous Tourist Interest.

The current representation closely resembles that of the past: Young women dressed in medieval style dance to the rhythm set by the "sotadera" (a Moorish woman responsible for instructing them in Muslim customs and persuading them of their supposed future happiness in the lands of the Caliphate). The procession advances from San Marcelo Square to the majestic Cathedral. Along the way, the Municipal Corporation, entrusted with paying homage, makes an offering to the Virgin.

The Cantaderas festival constitutes an emotional tribute and recognition by the people of León to the Virgin of the Assumption, patroness of the Cathedral, for having freed the Kingdom from the burdensome tribute of sending the Hundred Maidens to the Cordoban harems.

In addition to the representation and dance, the Cantaderas Festival includes other activities such as concerts of medieval music, dance and theater performances, fairs and crafts markets, as well as various cultural activities related to the history of León.

History of Las Cantaderas

The Festival of Las Cantaderas is a tradition deeply rooted in the history of León, commemorating the victory in the Battle of Clavijo that freed the Kingdom from the tribute of a hundred maidens imposed by Mauregato. Originally celebrated on August 15th, in recent years it was moved to June 29th and then to October 5th, ultimately settling on the Sunday before the Feast of San Froilán.

For three days, from August 14th to 17th, this festival took place. On the first day, forty-eight singing maidens, twelve from the most prominent parishes in the city, went to the Cathedral elegantly dressed. They were preceded by "the Sotadera," dressed in Moorish attire, who led the dance. They danced in groups in the choir and in pairs in front of the main altar. As night fell, they sang a solemn song before the White Virgin and concluded with fireworks and bonfires.

The event culminated on the 17th with the ceremony of the "foro u oferta." A processional parade was formed in the Poridad, led by the Cantaderas and followed by a cart pulled by decorated oxen, carrying agricultural products and a quarter of a brave bull. They processed into the cloister of the Cathedral. In front of the image of Our Lady of the Foro u Oferta, a kneeling cleric offered a dish of lard with honey to the Cathedral Chapter. The group of Cantaderas from the parish of San Marcelo presented baskets of pears and plums, rolls, and the quarter of the brave bull, thus concluding the "foro u oferta."

What to see in León

León is a city rich in historical and cultural heritage. Here are some of the most prominent places you can visit:

• León Cathedral: Known as the "Pulchra Leonina," it is a gem of Spanish Gothic architecture. Notable for its stained glass windows and impressive facade.
• Basilica of San Isidoro: A magnificent example of Romanesque art. It houses the Royal Pantheon, where the kings of León rest.
• Palace of the Guzmanes: Currently the seat of the Provincial Council, this Renaissance palace is a masterpiece of Leonese civil architecture.
• Casa de Botines: Another design by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, it is a fusion of Gothic and modernist styles.
• Parador de San Marcos: An impressive Renaissance building that once functioned as a hospital and is now a luxurious parador.
• Plaza Mayor of León: It is the heart of the city and an ideal place to relax, have a drink, and enjoy the atmosphere.
• León Museum: Here you can explore the history and culture of the province of León through its various collections.
• Museum of Contemporary Art of Castilla y León (MUSAC): A space dedicated to contemporary art with very interesting temporary exhibitions.
• Barrio Húmedo and Barrio Romántico: These neighborhoods are famous for their bars and restaurants where you can try the delicious local cuisine, especially the tapas.
• Quevedo Park and San Francisco Gardens: Perfect for taking a stroll and enjoying nature in the heart of the city.
• Puente de San Marcos: An ancient bridge that crosses the Bernesga River and offers an impressive view of the city.
• Cathedral Diocesan Museum of León: It houses a collection of sacred artworks related to the Cathedral.

This is just a sample of what you can find in León. The city has many more hidden gems and charming corners to explore.

What to eat in León

León is famous for its delicious and varied cuisine. Some popular dishes to try should include:

• Cecina: This is one of the most emblematic dishes of León. It consists of cured and smoked beef that is sliced thinly and served as an appetizer.
• Botillo: It is a typical sausage of the León region. It is made up of different cuts of pork, especially ribs, which are cooked with spices.
• Pulpo a la Sanabresa: Although Sanabria is a nearby area to León, this dish is very popular in the city. It consists of octopus cooked and seasoned with olive oil and paprika.
• Sopa de ajo: A comforting soup made with garlic, paprika, bread, and egg. It's a perfect warm dish for cooler days.
• Morcilla de León: Another specialty of the region, this blood sausage is famous for its intense flavor and smooth texture.
• Roasted Peppers: Red peppers roasted over coals are a very popular side dish in León. They are tasty and are often served as tapas.
• Ponche Segoviano: A delicious dessert consisting of a puff pastry base filled with custard and covered with a thin layer of powdered sugar.
• Mantecadas and Polvorones: These are traditional sweets found in many pastry shops in León. They are great for bringing back as souvenirs.
• Maragato: It is a small ring-shaped pastry that is usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
• Wines of the Region: León has an excellent wine-making tradition. Don't hesitate to try the wines from the area, both white and red.
• Artisanal Cheeses: The León region produces high-quality cheeses. Try some of the cheeses from the area to experience their unique flavor.

Trout in Cider: In León, fresh trout is prepared in a delicious Asturian cider sauce.